Should the person concerned claim unemployment benefit on completion of her studies in May 1991, her entitlement will be determined by reference to her contribution record in the contribution year 6 April 1989 to 5 April 1990. According to the Department's records, no contributions have been paid or credited on her behalf for that year and on this basis she would not be entitled to unemployment benefit. However, investigations are being made to determine whether she should have been awarded credited contributions during this period and I will inform the Deputy of the outcome in due course.
In the event that she is not entitled to unemployment benefit it is open to her to apply for unemployment assistance which is a means tested payment.
Persons in receipt of unemployment assistance at the long term rate and over 21 years may participate in full-time second level education courses without losing their entitlement and persons over 23 years may participate in third level courses. Persons in receipt of unemployment benefit are not entitled to participate in full-time education courses while continuing to claim benefit.
As the person concerned was in receipt of unemployment benefit she is not entitled to any unemployment payment while participating in the course. If her income is insufficient to meet her needs she may be entitled to supplementary welfare allowance and in this regard she should contact her community welfare officer.
